TORRINGTON – Janice E. Harris, age 76, passed away Saturday, Dec. 14, 2019.
Janice was born August 5, 1943, in Torrington to Alva and Marie (McDonald) Harris. Janice lost her hearing at a young age and attended school at Colorado Springs School for the Deaf and Blind, graduating as Valedictorian in 1963. She furthered her education at Gallaudet College for the Deaf in Washington, D.C.
Janice worked a short time in banking, moving to Greeley, Colo., to be closer to her family. Janice then moved to Los Angeles to be closer to her friends and the deaf community, changing careers to the U.S. Postal Service. She eventually moved to Salem, Ore., retiring from the post office in 2002 after more than 30 years of service.
Janice moved back to Torrington in 2006 to be with her family.
Janice enjoyed sports of all kinds. In 2012, Janice was awarded Hall of Fame honors from the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind in recognition of her achievements in athletics. She was the first woman to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. She was an outstanding player in basketball, volleyball, softball and track during her years at the school. Janice continued sports in college track and field, hockey, golf and swimming. As an adult, Janice was an avid golfer and bowler.
Janice is survived by her brother, Rod Harris, sisters Louise Essert and Nancy Blevins, brother-in-law Kenny Blevins, and her beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. Janice is also survived by her numerous friends and classmates.
Janice was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Thurell Duane (Duey) Harris, sisters-in-law Shirley Harris and Esther Harris, brother-in-law William Essert, nephews Rod Harris Jr., Jerry Harris, Jeremiah Harris and two infant nieces.
A gathering of family and friends will be 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, at Golden Manor 1 Social Hall, 2025 East F St., in Torrington. Cookies and refreshments will be served. Memorials may be directed to Waggin’ Tails Animal Shelter or to an animal shelter of your choice in memory of Janice’s love of animals.
